Le Bon Marché strikes an optimistic chord with a colorful exhibition

After two months of lockdown (and closure), Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche in Paris has decided to sound a note of optimism with the exhibition "En Couleurs!" With a profusion of pink, yellow, blue, tie-dye, patterns and embroidery... the Parisian department store is now offering a chance to forget the gloom and doom of the last few months.

What about a dose of color to dispel the memory of dreary weeks of lockdown? In these difficult times, any initiative that aims to restore morale with a moment of joy is more than welcome. For its spring exhibition, Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche has thrown open its doors to vibrant, sparkling and vitamin-rich colors, which have transformed all of its departments -- fashion, jewelry, accessories, beauty, decoration and gourmet food -- with an astonishing array of color. Several brands are pitching in with this cheerful and energetic project.

In the arena of fashion, tie-dye and colorblock set the tone at this exhibition, notably with models by Stouls, Roland Mouret, Loro Piana, Rivieras and Cacatoès, and such collaborations as Paul Smith x Liberty and Eres x Bonpoint. Cosmetics are also brash and saturated with a riot of pop colors from Foreo, Seoulista, Aveda, Clinique and Yves Saint Laurent Beauty.

Home decoration has not been forgotten. There are colorful interiors and chairs with bold motifs from Philippe Model, stand-out cushions from Harmony and vibrantly colored ceramics from Les Guimards. For its part, the Grande Epicerie de Paris has been flooded with packaging and dishes in a dazzling array of hues. Even the food stands are decked out with colorful creations.

An ode to craftsmanship

The exhibition also offers an opportunity to celebrate craftsmanship with a focus on traditional techniques from all over the world. Guest of honor Loewe x Paula's Ibiza highlights knowhow from the Balearics, Antik Batik presents a capsule of wares inspired by Mongolia, and Guanabana offers a selection of handmade accessories from South America.

Several brands have also presented their take on dreamcatchers, a final theme that evokes color, travel and traditional crafts. The protective charms are present in the form of embroidered motifs and decorative adornments on clothing lines, while also providing inspiration for jewelry and accessories.